Forvivlad

The Forvivlad (Dwarven for “Stone-grief” or “Flesh of Despair”) is a horrific curse afflicting the Dwarves of Jupiter under the reign of Traitor King Dumac. It is the result of prolonged exposure to toxic Titan-blood from spending too much time in the Deep Roads.

Symptoms

• Complete despair of flesh and bone — the infected’s body begins calcifying, their skin hardening toward stone.
• Severe mental instability; infected Dwarves descend into madness and become prone to violent outbursts.
• Tainted blood that can be identified by vampiric sense.
• In advanced stages, the sufferer loses autonomy entirely, making them highly susceptible to manipulation or direct command.

King Dumac’s Propaganda

Dumac refers to the Forvivlad as a “blessing” in his propaganda broadcasts, claiming the afflicted are “elevated” and “become the indestructible Adamantine shields that protect our glorious kingdom.” In reality, it is the result of horrific exploitation and toxic working conditions.

Cure

For a long time, the Forvivlad was believed to be incurable. However, Silas Clemens developed a bloodletting ritual that proved otherwise: by desanguinating an infected individual and replacing their corrupted Titan-blood with purified Dwarven blood from a healthy donor, the stone infection can be halted and reversed.

Ribny was the first confirmed person cured of the Forvivlad, becoming living proof to the Undershell resistance that liberation from the curse is possible. This discovery has enormous implications for the Bhan-Ember rebellion.